Event listings are FREE of charge. Send your flyers/info to Scott at scotmckie@ebci-nsn.gov or to Cherokeeonefeather1966@gmail.com
Benefits/Fundraisers
Bingo & Pop-Up Shop Fundraiser. Oct. 14 at the Peaches Squirrell Sports & Recreation Center in Cherokee, N.C. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., regular games start at 6 p.m. This is a fundraiser for Amanda Ramirez who is currently out of work due to medical reasons. Pack prices – $20/regular packs, $10/kids packs. Food will be available for sale. Wear pink for breast cancer awareness and receive a free game.
Annual Jesse Welch Memorial Turkey Shoot. Oct. 18 at 5 p.m. at the Jesse Welch Turkey Shoot Facility in Kolanvyi (Big Cove) in Cherokee, N.C. Good food, good fun, great prizes, great benefit. Cherokee Speakers Council “NDN” Taco Fundraiser. Oct. 3 at 11 a.m. at the Cherokee Speakers Place in Cherokee, N.C.
Bingo Night Fundraiser. Oct. 18 at Yellowhill Community Building in Cherokee, N.C. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., first game at 5 p.m. Free entry to play. Proceeds will go towards a trip for the Cherokee High School Student Council’s president and vice president visiting Harvard University.
EBCI Community Events
113th Annual Cherokee Indian Fair NAIWA Indian Dinner. Oct. 7 at 5 pm. Until gone, Oct. 10 from 5 p.m. until gone, Oct. 11 from 4 p.m. until gone at the Yellowhill Activity Center in Cherokee, N.C. Strawberry shortcake will also be available. Info: Lucille Wolfe (828) 736-5285
9th Annual Cherokee Skate Competition. Oct. 8 at the Cherokee Action Sports Park in Cherokee, N.C. Skate Jams: Beginner at 10 a.m., Intermediate at 11:30 a.m., Advanced/Open at 1 p.m., Best Trick at 2 p.m., Awards at 3:30 p.m. Entry is free for all.
Tsalagi Public Health Vaccine Clinics (COVID-19 and Flu).
- 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cherokee Indian Fair Elder’s Day event at the old Cherokee High School site in Cherokee, N.C.
- 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cherokee Indian Fair Veteran’s Day event
- 20 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Anthony Edward Lossiah Justice Center in Cherokee, N.C.
Cherokee Idol contest. Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. at the old Cherokee High School in Cherokee, N.C. Show off your vocal talent. This event is part of the 113th Cherokee Indian Fair. Info: Cherokee Welcome Center (828) 359-6490 or email chriwatt@ebci-nsn.gov
Cherokee Comedy Hour. Oct. 11 at 11 p.m. at the old Cherokee High School in Cherokee, N.C. This event is part of the 113th Cherokee Indian Fair. First place – $1,000; Second place – $500; Third place – $250. To register, contact the Cherokee Welcome Center (828) 359-6490
Tsali Care Center 1st Annual Fall Car Show. Oct. 12 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 267 Tsali Care Way in Cherokee, N.C. First, second, and third place “everyone’s favorite” trophies will be voted on by Tsali Care residents. This event is hosted by the Pharoahs Car Club of western North Carolina.
Tsalagi Public Health Walk-in Vaccine Clinics (18+). Oct. 14, 17, 21, and 24 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Beloved Women and Children’s Building at 72 Kaiser Wilnoty Rd. in Cherokee, N.C.
Cherokee Travel League Basketball signups. Until Oct. 15. Text the following information: Player name, parent/guardian name, phone number(s). Peewees (1st-3rd grade), Termites (4th-5th grade), Mites (6th-8th grade). Text to Osh Stephens (828) 736-5841, Charmin Welch 736-2500. Coaches will send more information to the number(s) you list as the tryout dates approach.
Breast Cancer Walk. Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Little Snowbird Field at 1897 Little Snowbird Rd. in Robbinsville, N.C. Please wear pink. Everyone is welcome to attend. Info: Hummer Phillips (828) 346-6959, hummphil@ebci-nsn.gov
Purple Lotus Flower Event. Oct. 22 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Cherokee Welcome Center Pavillion in Cherokee, N.C. Presented by the EBCI Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Program, this event aims to promote awareness and support for survivors in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This is a collaborative event with local advocates and community leaders promoting cultural resilience, hope, and support for domestic violence survivors, featuring speakers and presentations. The theme is the Purple Lotus, which is a symbol of hope, strength, and healing for domestic violence survivors. Info: Billie Jo Rich at bijrich@ebci-nsn.gov
Cherokee Youth Center’s Halloween Carnival. Oct. 23 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Cherokee Youth Center in Cherokee, N.C. This fun evening is open to the public. Games, bouncy houses, and a haunted house. If you’re interested in being a food vendor this event, please call (828) 359-8113.
EBCI Nurse-Family Partnership Childbirth Class. Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Cherokee Choices Community Room at 806 Acquoni Rd. in Cherokee, N.C. This is free and open to all. Register with Tricia Carver at triccarv@ebci-nsn.gov or (828) 359-6250
Community Fire Relations Day. Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Kituwah Pavillion at Kituwah. This is a community gathering for members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and other federally recognized tribes to support re-Indigenizing the practice of fire in forested lands, from a Kituwah perspective. Community discussion, cultural exchange, fire pot workshop with Levi West, and a cultural lunch. Info: averyguy@ebci-nsn.gov
EBCI Eco-Cultural Wildland Firefighter Training. Oct. 27-30. Earn your NWCG Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2) certification and learn eco-cultural fire practices. What to expect: 4.5 day course, per daystipend for students, hands-on field exercises in an outdoor classroom, EBCI eco-cultural fire contest, lunch served daily, curriculum includes: L-180, S-130, and S-190. Info: averyguy@ebci-nsn.gov
Compassion Week. Nov. 3-9 at 7 p.m. nightly at New Song at 3548 Wolfetown Rd. in Cherokee, N.C. Monday – Pastor Mike Youngblood, Tuesday – Pastor Tim Dove, Wednesday – Pastor Kelsey Moore, Thursday – Pastor Tim Melton, Friday, Evangelist Jonas Henderson, Saturday – Pastor Anita Ayers, Sunday – Apostle Eric Moore. Food provided. Free and open to the public. Info: (828) 507-7392, newsongcherokee@gmail.com
Gather & Give Market. Nov. 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Yellowhill Community Building in Cherokee, N.C. Lots of vendors with Tupperware, Shaklee, handmade baskets, ribbon skirts, jewelry, beadwork, and more. Contact Angie Garcia for tables (828) 778-4585
Cherokee Cultural/Historic Events
Junaluska Wreath-Laying Ceremony. Nov. 5 at 11 a.m. at the Junaluska Memorial Site at 1 Junaluska Dr. in Robbinsville, N.C. Join in celebrating the life of Junaluska. Info: Angelina Jumper at angejump@ebci-nsn.gov or Kayleen Rockwood at kaylrock@ebci-nsn.gov
Cherokee Storytellers meet the fourth Tuesday of every month from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Ray Kinsland Leadership building in Cherokee, N.C. All ages are welcome. The group shares stories and resources.
Cherokee storytelling and Cherokee history in the Snowbird Community Library at 60 Snowbird School Rd. in Robbinsville, N.C., every fourth Monday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. All ages are welcome.
Quallatown Makers. Tuesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Museum of the Cherokee People Art Studio in Cherokee, N.C. Quallatown Makers is a free opportunity to gather as a group and be together while working on art. The goal of this group, organized and hosted by Museum of the Cherokee People, is to perpetuate Cherokee art and knowledge-sharing. Bring your own craft; all artforms are welcome. Coffee will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own snacks.
Fingerweaving Fridays. Fridays through Sept. 26 from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m in the Museum of the Cherokee People Art Studio in Cherokee, N.C. Join Lead Atsila Anotasgi Cultural Specialist Nola (EBCI) in a crafting circle. Bring a project you’re working on or begin a new weaving using materials brought from home or sourced from the Museum’s selection. Beginners and experienced weavers welcome; instruction available. This opportunity is free of charge and registration is not required.
EBCI Community Regular Meetings
NAIWA (North American Indian Women’s Association, Inc.) Cherokee Chapter meets the second Thursday of each month at 4:30 p.m. at the West Senior Center in Cherokee, N.C. Eligibility for membership: any American Indian or Alaska Native or Canadian First Nations woman, 18 years of age or older, who is officially identified as a member of a federally recognized Indian Tribe/Nation. The meetings contain information on purpose and further aims. All who meet the eligibility are invited to attend.
NAIWA Daughters meetings. Each meeting is from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Qualla Java in Cherokee, N.C. Meetings are scheduled for Aug. 10 and Sept. 14.
Dinilawigi (Tribal Council) Meetings
(All meetings are held in the Cherokee Tribal Council House in Cherokee, N.C. unless otherwise noted.)
Pow Wow Listings
14th Annual Rocking the Rez Pow Wow. Oct. 4-5 at Pakitu Community Park in El Paso, Texas. MC: Marty Thurman. Host Northern Drum: Sun Eagle. Host Southern Drum: Iron Bow. Info: (915) 704-5488 or 694-4424
Hart of the West Native American Pow Wow. Oct. 4-5 at William S. Hart Park in Newhall, Calif. Info: Citlaly Ortega (818) 837-0794, HartPowWow@tataviam-nsn.us
Sacred Springs Pow Wow. Oct. 4-5 at Meadows Center for Water and the Environment in San Marcos, Texas. MC: Tim Tall Chief. Host Drums: Ottertrail, Eagle Point. Info: Courtney Enriquez at courtney@sspowwow.com
Santa Ynez Chumash Intertribal Pow Wow. Oct. 4-5 in Santa Ynez, Calif. Info: Heather Armenta (805) 694-6997, sy.powwow@chumash.gov
Homelands Pow Wow. Oct. 4-5 at Darrow School in New Lebanon, New York. MC: Aaron Athey. Host Drum: Gii Taa’See. Info: Shannon Chada (630) 969-1134, info@homelandspowwow.org
37th Annual He Sapa Wacipi Na Oskate (Black Hills Pow Wow and Celebration). Oct. 10-12 at Summit Arena at the Monument in Rapid City, S.D. Emcees: Ruben Little Head and Whitney Rencountre II. Info: (605) 341-0925, https://www.blackhillspowwow.com
Snow Mountain Pow Wow. Oct. 10-12 at Las Vegas Snow Mountain Pow Wow Grounds in Las Vegas, Nev. MC: Bart Powaukee. Host Northern Drum: Red Spirit. Host Southern Drum: Red Thunder. Info: (702) 386-3926, powwow@lvpaiute.com, https://www.lvpaiutetribe.com/powwow
Annual Midwest SOARRING Foundation Harvest Pow Wow. Oct. 11-12 at DuPage County Fairgrounds in Wehaton, Ill. MC: Leonard Malatare. Host Drum: Wind Eagle. Invited Drums: Iron Bear, GiiTaa’se Singers. Info: Joseph Schranz at joseph@midwestsoarring.org, https://harvestpowwow.com
HIITEM’WAQ’IISWIT Pow Wow. Oct. 17-19 at Clearwater River Casino in Lewiston, Idaho. Emcees: Bart Powaukee and Mike Sanchez. Host Drum: Wild Rose. Info: Clearwater River Casino (208) 746-0723, communications@creasino.com
Hunting Moon Pow Wow. Oct. 17-19 at the Baird Center in Milwaukee, Wisc. Contest Drum List: Black Bear, Bull Horn, Fort Peck Sioux, Sharpshooter, Southern Cree, Black Lodge, Cozad, Mo Town, Showtime, Wild Rose. Info: https://www.huntingmoonpowwow.com
NAIA 44th Annual Indian Education Tennessee Pow Wow. Oct. 17-19 at Long Hunter State Park in Nashville, Tenn. MC: Tim Tallchief. Host Northern Drum: Medicine Tail. Host Southern Drum: Otter Trail. Info: (615) 232-9179
Auburn Big Time Pow Wow. Oct. 18 at Gold Country Fairgrounds & Event Center in Auburn, Calif. MC: Steve Darden. Info: Yasmine Acuna (530) 863-8170, yasminea@sierranativealliance.org
Support Groups
Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Analenisgi. Info: www.AAwnc80.com
Celebrate Recovery meets every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the Cherokee Baptist Church at 812 Tsalagi Road, in Cherokee, N.C. This is a Christ-centered recovery program for anyone struggling with hurt, hang-ups, and habits of any kind. All are welcome. Info: Chris McMillan (828) 788-5410
Cherokee Cancer Support Group, potluck dinner with a speaker the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Betty’s Place, 40 Goose Creek Rd, Cherokee, N.C. Anyone is welcome to attend the potluck. The group provides educational and emotional support to clients and families of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians members with cancer. The group can provide financial assistance for fuel, lodging, and transportation and also can assist with mastectomy items, nutritional supplements, wigs, and related products. The group can volunteer to take a client to their appointment if it is requested in a timely manner. Betty’s Place is open Monday through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Info: (828) 497-0788
Life@WesternCarolina. each Wednesday morning during the academic school year the Life@ group meets on the campus of Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C. For those over the age of 50 and looking for ways to engage with the community. To learn more or register visit life.wcu.edu or contact Western Carolina University Educational Outreach (828) 227-7397.
MARA (Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous) meets Thursdays at 5 p.m. in the Rivercane Room at Analenisgi. Info: Analenisgi (828) 497-9163 or visit: https://cherokeehospital.org/locations/analenisgi
Narcotics Anonymous meets on Mondays at 6 p.m. at the Cherokee Indian Hospital. Info: North Carolina NA Helpline (855) 227-6272, or www.NA.org
Western N.C. and Beyond Events
Swain County Democratic Party monthly meeting. Oct. 13 at 7 p.m. at the United Community Bank Community Room at 145 Slope St. in Bryson City, N.C. Zoom option available. All Democrat and unaffiliated voters are invited. Info: swaincountydems@gmail.com
Cherokee Animal Care Clinic Pet Food Donation Day. Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Clinic located at 1100 US Hwy N in Whittier, N.C. Those who are in need can come by and get some free bagged food for their dog and/or cat. This will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Info: (828) 497-3401
Legal Insights & Business Resources for Entrepreneurs. Oct. 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Southwestern Community College in Sylva, N.C. Join for a morning of learning, networking, and support designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners thrive. Hear from experts, discover resources, and connect with partners. Breakfast and lunch provided. This is free. Register at: https://go.unc.edu/WNCLawEvent
Folkmoot Live! Presents Free Planet Radio with Adam Maalouf and Aparna Keshaviah. Oct. 16 at 7 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. at the Folkmoot Friendship Center at 112 Virginia Ave. in Waynesville, N.C. $25 donations (pay what you can). Tickets: givebutter.com/folklive1016
Free Legal Counseling for Small Business Owners. Oct. 17 at Southwestern Community College in Sylva, N.C. Experienced attorneys and UNC Law Clinic students will provide free one-on-one counseling on common small business issues including: entity formation, contract review, and lease questions. Register at: https://go.unc.edu/lawclinicWCU
Stecoah Valley Center Harvest Festival Quilt Show. Oct. 17-18 at the Stecoah Valley Center at 121 Schoolhouse Rd. in Robbinsville, N.C. All types of quilts and fiber arts are encouraged for display. To be eligible for the Viewers’ Choice Award of $100, the quilt has to have been made by the person(s) entering it, and the quilt cannot have already won this award. Quilts will be received and hung for display on Oct. 17, and the exhibit will be open for viewing and voting on Oct. 18. A copy of the exhibit rules and an entry form can be obtained by calling the Center at (828) 479-3364.
Buffalo Blessing. Oct. 18 at 8220 Hwy 60 in Georgetown, Tenn. Buffalo blessing by Sonny Ledford, intertribal dancing, Warriors of Anikituhwa performance, birds of prey, and more.
Smoky Mountain Geek Expo. Oct. 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Smoky Mountain Event Center in Waynesville, N.C. Cosplay contest, comics and toys, games, collectibles, artists, food trucks, and more. Admission is $5, 12-and-under and free. Info: https://www.smokymountaingeekexpo.com
Cherokee Language and Culture Exhibition reception. Oct. 21 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Star Atrium in the Bardo Arts Center on the campus of Western Carolina University at 199 Centennial Dr. in Cullowhee, N.C. This event is free and open to the public. Welcome remarks at 4:45 p.m.; light appetizers and refreshments will be provided. Info: bardoartscenter@wcu.edu
Holiday Art Market. Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the SCC Swain Center at 60 Almond School Rd. in Bryson City, N.C. Art, crafts, food, and demonstrations. This is sponsored by the SCC Ceramic Arts Club.
Trolls: A Field Study by Thomas Dambo. Nov. 15 to Feb. 17 at The North Carolina Arboretum, Asheville, North Carolina. Days in the gardens and on the trails. Evenings in the garden at Winer lights Nov. 15 – Jan. 3 Visiting on their first North American excursion, these twelve interactive troll sculptures will explore the Arboretum, embarking on a curious journey to learn about humankind. For more information please visit ncarboretum.org
Qualla Community Club Christmas Bazaar. Nov. 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 180 Shoal Creek Church Loop in Whittier, N.C. Crafts, textiles, woodworking, pottery, candles, glass, jewelry, décor, metal, etc. Spots are available for vendors. Message Qualla Community Club on Facebook for more information.
